NHRC's new chairman appointed

• President Ram Nath Kovind formally appointed Justice Arun Kumar Mishra as the chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
• NHRC, established in 1993, is an independent statutory body as per the provisions of the Protection of Human Rights Act of 1993.

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)

• It is the watchdog of human rights in the country.
• It was established in conformity with the Paris Principles, adopted for the promotion and protection of human rights in Paris.

Structure

• It is a multi-member body which consists of a Chairman and seven other members.
• Out of the seven members, three are an ex-officio member.
• President appoints the Chairman and members of NHRC on the recommendation of the high-powered committee headed by the Prime Minister.
• The Chairperson and the members of the NHRC are appointed for 5 years or till the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier.

Functions and Powers of NHRC

• NHRC investigates grievances regarding the violation of human rights either suo moto or after receiving a petition.
• It has the power to interfere in any judicial proceedings involving any allegation of violation of human rights.
• It can visit any jail or any other institution under the control of the State Government to see the living conditions of the inmates and to make recommendations thereon.
• It can review the safeguards provided under the constitution or any law for the protection of human rights and can recommend appropriate remedial measures.